What is Orff-Schulwerk, and why is it important in music education?
Orff-Schulwerk is "Music for Children", a way to teach and learn music. It is based on things children like to do; sing, chant, clap and keep a beat on anything near at hand. These instincts are directed into learning music by hearing and making music first, then reading and writing it later. This is the same way we all learned our language.
Orff-Schulwerk is "schoolwork", designed for all children, not just the privileged, talented or selected few. There is a place for every child, and each contributes according to ability. Orff-Schulwerk happens in non-competitive atmosphere where one of the rewards is the pleasure of making good music with others. When the children want to write down what they have composed, reading and writing music find their moment.
Orff-Schulwerk uses poems, rhymes, games, songs and dances as examples and basic materials. These may be traditional or original. spoken or sung, they may be accompanied by clapping and stamping or by drums, sticks and bells. The special Orff melody instruments include xylophones and glockenspiels, all high quality barred instruments that offer good musical sound immediately. Played in ensemble like a small orchestra, their use helps children become sensitive listeners and considerate participants.
Orff-Schulwerk is a unique music learning approach. Movement, speech, song and instrumental playing are integrated to teach the elements of music. Small percussion and melody instruments that all can play are used in ensemble. Improvisation is encouraged to develop creative thinking. Orff-Schulwerk training introduces students of any age to a lifetime of pleasure in music, whether as a participants or informed listeners.
American Orff-Schulwerk Association
Orff-Schulwerk is "Music for Children", a way to teach and learn music. It is based on things children like to do; sing, chant, clap and keep a beat on anything near at hand. These instincts are directed into learning music by hearing and making music first, then reading and writing it later. This is the same way we all learned our language.
Orff-Schulwerk is "schoolwork", designed for all children, not just the privileged, talented or selected few. There is a place for every child, and each contributes according to ability. Orff-Schulwerk happens in non-competitive atmosphere where one of the rewards is the pleasure of making good music with others. When the children want to write down what they have composed, reading and writing music find their moment.
Orff-Schulwerk uses poems, rhymes, games, songs and dances as examples and basic materials. These may be traditional or original. spoken or sung, they may be accompanied by clapping and stamping or by drums, sticks and bells. The special Orff melody instruments include xylophones and glockenspiels, all high quality barred instruments that offer good musical sound immediately. Played in ensemble like a small orchestra, their use helps children become sensitive listeners and considerate participants.
Orff-Schulwerk is a unique music learning approach. Movement, speech, song and instrumental playing are integrated to teach the elements of music. Small percussion and melody instruments that all can play are used in ensemble. Improvisation is encouraged to develop creative thinking. Orff-Schulwerk training introduces students of any age to a lifetime of pleasure in music, whether as a participants or informed listeners.
American Orff-Schulwerk Association